Friday, September 26, 2008
The Woman Behind Miss Piggy
Smithsonian Magazine: "Bonnie Erickson designed and built the inimitable Miss Piggy in 1974 for an early 'Muppets' television special, produced by Jim Henson. Puppets, props and storyboards from Henson's prolific career are featured in the traveling exhibit 'Jim Henson's Fantastic World.' Anika Gupta spoke with Erickson."
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
9 comments:
This article was very interesting and topical to me because the sophomore stagecraft class is making muppets. i though it was interesting how much she talked about the puppets having a backstory and a life. there is so much to creating something beyond what it looks like, and i think her success was because she knew this well.
One of the interesting things about puppets is how they appeal to all ages. Though it seems like adults don't like puppets I think that in someway puppets remind us of ourselves in a way that cartoons and books don't. I think it is the puppet being in physical space compared to on the screen or page.
Its also interesting that most puppets are adults and not kids. That they have this whole life story to tell and lots advice to give to give to kids about growing up. So no matter what age people can feel connected to puppets because of the age.
When I think about my favorite childhood tv shows, they all included puppets of some kind. I loved Sesame Street, the Muppets, and plenty of misc PBS shows. To me, these characters were real people. I never believed that they were human, but I could relate to them. Part of it was the bright colors and overexaggerated facial features that made them appealing to me as a child. I distinctly liking Big Bird b/c he looked so soft. All these aspects are what make puppets attractive to children.
In the last year probably the two theatrical mediums I've gained immeasurable respect for have been puppetry and masks. Until last year I didnt realize the rich history and usefulness of both. This is just a really great example of their mastery.
I enjoy what she says about creating a "legendary character" and the three points involved. I think it could also be applied to the creative process of a show. As an example, one can have an excellent show in every aspect but not have good publicity to get the word out; thus, the show flops. There are many aspects to getting art out "there," and I think this article touches on lots of them.
I, like Allison, enjoyed Big Bird; I'm still amazed by how well the Muppets are received today. They're so universal, they teach you a lot about life, and their humor also applies to older audiences too.
I love reading about people behind characters that you don't associate with a creator or solid origin. It's always amazing to me how the thought process happened for them and where they got their ideas from. Miss Piggy is a very recognizable figure just as all the other muppets are. It's truly amazing the worlds that can be created and how they can transcend time remaining fresh.
i guess i never thought about how the actors who voiced the muppets had a big role in developing the characters in general. Its very interesting how extremely different "people" can be played by the same actress. I'd love to know how she jumped between the old men and miss piggy so easily. Also, as others have said, I am glad that she is being recognized finally. Most puppetteers are forgotten.
I am a fan of Muppets and they were always an interesting part of my childhood. Although Miss Piggy is not my favorite character, but they are all interesting with their own sense of character and personality. I would have to say my favorite characters are The Sweedish chef, Statler and Waldorf. I am a big fan of their use of them in the Muppet show at Disney.
I love The Muppet Show. I really wish that the show was still on tv. Puppetry really appeal to everyone and that is what makes them so great. And the design and performance with them is so interesting. I really hope more shows begin to use puppetry and see the extreme usefulness of adorable furry creatures telling stories.
Post a Comment